Clinical Counseling: Navigating the Storms of Stress

"Whenever people talk to me about the weather, I always feel quite certain they mean something else." ~ Oscar Wilde (1854-1900). "The Importance of Being Earnest," 1895

The economy is fragile at best. Financial pressures seem to be hitting everyone these days. It's like an emotional storm is brewing all around us. It is shaking all aspects of our lives; not just economical, but social, political, medical, spiritual and educational as well.

How can we survive the current emotional storms of today's economically and highly politically charged climate? Firstly, let me suggest you limit your time listening and/or watching political programs. A wise person once told me, "Rather than challenging me to be open to other views, watching that stuff only reinforces what I already think. It only increases my stress."

Also, limiting how much of the daily news we take in can help reduce the stresses we hear about everyday life events (homicides, assaults, foreclosures, wars, etc.).

How about taking a personal inventory of simple things that you can personally achieve to help reduce stress and improve your overall health? In times of "stress storms," many have a tendency to eat high-calorie, sweet foods when fruits provide better nutritional value. Also, losing sleep can be tantamount to "rowing against the wind" thus exhausting one's strength and draining one of the tolerances needed to "survive the storm." Finding time to exercise, even 10 minutes a day, can help increase metabolism, energy and stamina.

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Whenever we feel like we've "lost our bearings" during an emotional tsunami, there is a tendency to look for someone who can provide us with direction, hope and leadership. This can enable us to deal with the loss of control or the chaos in our lives. It may be very helpful to start a search for a mentor, role model, or leader whom you feel is relatable and understands your situation. Seeking out qualities that are positive, healthy and focused will be important. This person will also need to have a degree of humility to help develop qualities of healthy resilience within your own life enabling you to "set your sails" for the journey ahead.

James D. Martin is a licensed professional clinical counselor and the program director of the Lincoln County Community Assistance Program and the Heritage Program for Senior Adults at the Lincoln County Medical Center. Confidential screenings are available. Call 575-257-6283.

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